How much does camping cost at Group Picnic Campground?

Camping fees at Group Picnic Campground range from $10-$305/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Group Picnic Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Group Picnic Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Group Picnic Campground before I book?

Yes! Group Picnic Campground has 36 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Group Picnic Campground?

Group Picnic Campground is open Memorial Day through Labor Day.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Group Picnic Campground?

Group Picnic Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Group Picnic Campground?

Fire policies at Group Picnic Campground: Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Open ground fires are prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Group Picnic Campground have?

Group Picnic Campground has 431 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Group Picnic Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Group Picnic Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Group Picnic Campground?

Group Picnic Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Group Picnic Campground?

Popular activities at Group Picnic Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities, Climbing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Group Picnic Campground

4.12

92 reviews

17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris CA, 92571

Top 9% in CAWinter

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Beach Camping California

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,560 ft

Price

$10 - $305/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

431 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,560 ft

Price

$10 - $305/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

431 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Group Picnic Campground

$10.00 - $305.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $10 for hike-and-bike sites to $305 for premium group picnic areas accommodating up to 200 people. Day-use vehicle fees are $10-$20...

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hookup Site Fee$45.00

Premium Site Fee$305.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00

Get Notified When Available

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Reserve California

Provider

(800) 444-7275interp@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris CA, 92571

Group Picnic Campground

17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris CA, 92571

Nearby places

Riverside (11 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Moreno Valley (approximately 15 minutes), Perris (adjacent to the park).

Nearby supplies

Rec-Out Marina Store within Lake Perris SRA (offers snacks, camping gear, firewood, and fishing supplies). Grocery stores in Moreno Valley and Perris are approximately 10-15 minutes away.

Driving directionsFrom the 60 freeway east, exit Moreno Beach Dr. Go right to Via Del Lago and make a left. Via Del Lago will come straight into the park at the Moreno Valley Entrance. From the 215 south, exit Ramona Expressway and go left to Lake Perris Drive, make another left. This brings you straight to the Perris Entrance.

Both major highways (60 and I-215) provide paved, accessible roads. The final approach includes well-marked roads with clear signage to the park entrances. Ramona Expressway and Via Del Lago are main access points.

Weather at Group Picnic Campground

Current alert: Seasonal waterfowl hunting closures on the east side of the lake every other Sunday from October to January.

Best Time to Camp at Group Picnic Campground

Spring delivers the most balanced conditions. Daytime highs run mid-60s to low-80s, nights cool to the 40s and 50s. Wildflowers peak, water temperatures rise for boating and fishing, and trails stay comfortable before summer heat arrives. August can hit 94°F, making lake access essential. Winter afternoons reach 71°F, mornings drop to 46°F. Wind is common year-round. Bring stakes and weights for tents and easy-ups, especially if you're visiting outside spring.

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Top 9% in CA

Open year-round; Dec–Feb quieter with cooler temps and views of snow-capped peaks.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round, but off-season (December 1 - February 28) offers uncrowded conditions and cooler weather.

About Group Picnic Campground

Group Picnic Campground sits at 1,560 feet in Lake Perris State Recreation Area, roughly 15 miles southeast of Riverside. The facility handles groups from 50 to 200 people across 431 sites, with nightly fees ranging from $10 to $305. Reservations are standard for group events, and the campground offers flush toilets, potable water, and a camp store.

The Group Picnic Campground is exclusively designed for day-use group activities. It is not suitable for overnight camping.

Historical Significance

The Ya'i Heki' Regional Indian Museum on-site displays rock art and artifacts from the indigenous peoples who inhabited this area. Specific tribal affiliations and historical dates are not detailed in available data.

Weather and SeasonsSpring delivers the most balanced conditions. Daytime highs run mid-60s to low-80s, nights cool to the 40s and 50s. Wildflowers peak, water temperatures rise for boating and fishing, and trails stay comfortable before summer heat arrives. August can hit 94°F, making lake access essential. Winter afternoons reach 71°F, mornings drop to 46°F. Wind is common year-round. Bring stakes and weights for tents and easy-ups, especially if you're visiting outside spring.

ElevationPerched at a refreshing 1,560 feet above sea level when the reservoir reaches full capacity, the campground offers a perfect escape from coastal fog while maintaining comfortable temperatures year-round. This ideal elevation creates stunning vistas and provides just enough altitude to enhance those spectacular Southern California sunsets.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies coastal sage scrub and chaparral terrain above a man-made reservoir. The Bernasconi Hills form a natural amphitheater around the lake, framing sunrise and sunset views while blocking coastal wind. Spring brings wildflower displays through the brittlebush, chamise, and buckwheat. Mule deer graze at dawn, coyotes patrol ridgelines, and over 100 bird species use the reservoir. Sites sit in open terrain with partial shade and minimal screening between groups.

Geological RegionDiscover a unique slice of Southern California's Inland Empire where rolling hills meet sparkling waters. This captivating landscape showcases classic coastal sage scrub and chaparral ecosystems thriving around a stunning man-made reservoir. The surrounding low mountains, including the distinctive Bernasconi Hills, create a natural amphitheater that frames unforgettable sunrises and sunsets while providing shelter from coastal winds.

Scenic ViewsScenic views of the Bernasconi Hills and Russell Mountains. Snow-capped San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains are visible during winter.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodges or accommodations in the Group Picnic Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesVisitors can explore the Ya’i Heki’ Regional Indian Museum, which offers cultural exhibits and information about Native American history in the area.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

After 2:00 PM.

Check-out

By 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 8 guests per site for family sites
group sites accommodate up to 100.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are open and designed for large groups, with space for multiple vehicles per site. Shade is partial, privacy is minimal. Reviews mention crowded conditions and close proximity between neighboring groups.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability depends on the site. If arriving late, available sites can be chosen from the listed board and paid for by 10 AM the next morning.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $7.99 fee. Late cancellations additionally forfeit one night's fee. Modifications cost $7.99 per reservation.

AccessibilityAccessible parking, routes to picnic tables, and restrooms are available. Shaded accessible picnic sites are scattered throughout the park.

Site SizeSites are designed to accommodate large groups, with capacities ranging from 50 to 200 people and space for multiple vehicles.

PrivacySites are generally open with partial shade and minimal privacy. User reviews mention crowded conditions and proximity between sites.

Total Campsites431 campsites

Recommended SitesFor shade, bring additional canopies as natural shade is limited. Sites in Quail Loop offer accessibility features.

Need help booking Group Picnic Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

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Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Group Picnic Campground at Lake Perris SRA offers essential amenities catering to group activities and day use reservations. Each reservation site includes picnic tables, shared restroom facilities, partial shade, and BBQ grills. Flush toilets are available and are shared with adjacent groups. Drinking water is accessible in shared locations via water spigots. Day use fees are applicable per vehicle, and pets are allowed but must adhere to park rules. Vehicles are required to remain on paved areas.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Camp Store

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The Group Picnic Campground at Lake Perris SRA offers a variety of outdoor activities designed to cater to groups and families. Visitors can enjoy the scenic picnic areas and easy access to the lake for recreational water activities.

Hiking

Climbing

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include venomous snakes like the Red-Diamond Rattlesnake and occasional strong winds during summer.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Open ground fires are prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesMoreno Valley Community Hospital (approximately 10 miles). Emergency assistance can also be obtained from the park's ranger staff.

Trash & RecyclingShared dumpsters are available for trash disposal. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.

Water FeaturesLocated next to Lake Perris, offering swimming beaches and access to boating and fishing.

Camp HostCampground hosts are available but limited enforcement of quiet hours has been noted.

Cell CoverageLimited information is available on cell phone service at the Group Picnic Campground. However, one user review mentioned a lack of phone service during their stay.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

92 reviews

Satisfactory

Group Picnic Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Lake Perris Group Picnic Campground are mixed. Positive highlights include clean bathrooms, friendly staff, and family-friendly environment. Negative feedback mentions crowded conditions, lack of enforcement of park rules, and trash issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 92 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean restrooms and showers, friendly staff, ample shaded areas, and great facilities for family outings. Users appreciated the lake's beauty and accessibility for water activities.

Based on 92 reviews

Common Concerns

Trash in campsites, lack of privacy, noise levels from nearby groups, and inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours. Some reviews mentioned issues with campsite cleanliness and maintenance.

Based on 92 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Group sites are spacious but lack privacy. One user mentioned Quail Loop 32 as disappointing due to trash and noise. Group campsites are recommended for family gatherings but need more shade.

Based on 92 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring easy-ups or shade tents as shade is partial, arrive early to secure parking, bring stakes and weights for tents due to wind, and pack personal trash bags to help maintain site cleanliness.

Based on 92 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are busy and crowded, with parking lots filling early. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Winter months offer a quieter experience.

Based on 92 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Bathrooms were clean for showers 🚿 👌 as well and security as well." - Amber Ramirez "Had a great time fishing here. 🎣 Camped here for 2 nights." - Insight Living "I camped here and do not...

Based on 92 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible parking and restrooms were appreciated by users. Mentioned amenities for individuals with disabilities were satisfactory.

Based on 92 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must remain on a leash. Dogs are prohibited from beaches and water areas. Some users found pet-related restrictions inconvenient.

Based on 92 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Family reunions, church groups, or team outings that want lakeside day-use space with BBQ grills, flush toilets, and swim beaches nearby. Spring weekdays keep the heat and the neighboring-group noise to a minimum.

Skip if

Anyone expecting a peaceful overnight experience. Quiet hours end at 10 PM on paper, but reviewers consistently report loud music well past that, and Quail Loop 32 drew specific complaints about trash and noise.

Nearby Campgrounds

17801 Lake Perris Drive, Perris, CA 92571

Deer Campground sits within Lake Perris State Recreation Area, offering 431 sites for tents, RVs, and groups among the Bernasconi Hills and Russell Mountains. Sites accommodate RVs up to 31 feet and include electric and water hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables. Fees run $10-$45 per night. The campground gets crowded and noisy during peak weekends, but it's a convenient base for lake access and trail exploration.